29

Chapter Text

Chapter 29 More Arrivals

Sansa Stark

Mother looked like she'd swallowed a lemon. She always did these days, not that she could blame her.

Sansa knew there so many shocks still to come, both she and Jon had been avoiding telling mother and father many things. Or at least avoiding telling them everything at once. That would have been too much.

And now Ser Davos was here with Shireen and Gendry. That was one thing that had been revealed to mother rather spectacularly. She was glad that Gendry was safe and remembered Arya, but the whole bastard issue was going to be a prickly point with mother.

…

More than a prickly point. There would probably be shouting involved...and Sansa couldn't really explain everything without explaining more of the truth about Arya.

And then there would probably be more shouting...

She stifled her sigh quietly, and paid attention to the meeting.

They were gathered once more in father's solar. They all sat as Davos told them all he knew. Lord Manderly had joined them and the portly northern lord had been quite happy to see Davos again much to mother's surprise. Arya had taken Shireen and Gendry to get settled in Winterfell while Maester Luwin was finding a place for Hot Pie and Arya's other friend.

Davos was sitting stiffly as he relayed what he knew, "We stayed long enough anchored off King's Landing to hear a few things, and Gendry..."

Sansa didn't miss the angry look in mother's eyes at the mention of Gendry.

"...did tell us more of what's happening in the city. The Sparrows were running about shouting about the End of the World and denouncing the crown. Thankfully, they were losing, King Robert was dealing with them quite brutally," he said with amused chagrin, he then paused and cast a concerned eye towards mother before continuing, "Also...I heard the first night after our return, Jaime Lannister carved his way out of King's Landing. He and a large group of Redcloaks were seen riding west away from King's Landing...they also say he slew Loras Tyrell in his escape," Davos revealed unhappily.

Sansa's polite smile turned into a rictus, "That's not good."

Lord Manderly nodded equally grim, "Lady Olenna will want Lannister blood for this...not that she wouldn't have been braying for it before."

Sansa nodded offhandedly, as her mind reeled with all the horrible possibilities, "Be that as it may, before he left, Bran keep assuring me that Sam has matters in hand, but this...the Tyrells will be out for more Lannister blood," she said with a pained grimace.

Lord Manderly and Davos nodded in agreement with her.

"You're putting a lot of trust in this Samwell Tarly," mother added dryly in concern, dubious of Sam's skill and their trust in him.

"Sam is capable...he's capable of much more than anyone imagined- especially his father," Sansa reassured her, "Until we hear otherwise, we can't really do anything. We don't even know how to properly help him if he is indeed in trouble. We can only continue onwards securing the North and the Wall."

"Best to wait and not do anything rash," Davos said nodding in agreement.

"Anyway, that aside, I have received word from Daenerys today," Sansa quickly shared the content of the message.

Lord Manderly and Davos chuckled while mother tensed at the news of dragons.

"This is excellent news, my Lady!" Lord Manderly said beaming.

"Yes indeed, because her Grace needed another title," Davos added chuckling again with an easy smile.

Sansa found herself unconsciously rolling her eyes at Davos's comment, "Yes," she said putting forth a fake smile, as she regained control of the expressions on her face.

Davos pushed forward, "I've been at sea for while. The Narrow Sea was uncharacteristically stormy, I don't remember it being like this last time, and this trip took much longer than I expected...but what about the other kingdoms? What's happening?"

Sansa nodded in understanding, "Jon took father and Robb they're sorting out the Boltons, Karstarks and Umbers. Jon's last raven said that the Boltons were dead and they haven't lost anyone," she informed him with glee. She'd been very happy to receive that news.

Davos nodded with a satisfied smile, "Good riddance."

Lord Manderly nodded with grim satisfaction, "That's one less stain on the North's honor," he added gruffly.

Sansa nodded, "We were all happy to hear this. They're headed to the Wall after that, the Wildlings must be allowed to pass into the North this time, before it's too late. As for my grandfather, he has declared for Jon and sent Uncle Edmure to deal with Walder Frey. And he's already dealt with them quite severely," she declared with a wolfish and toothy smile.

Davos looked a little pained now. Uncle Edmure had been very bitter and angry by the end. She could only- rather gleefully, imagine just how savagely he'd dealt with them. His raven had been sparse on details, but he'd promised that they would not be a problem. He'd also cryptically mentioned a gift he was sending to Winterfell along with a long letter with all the details.

Davos scratched at at his beard nervously, "Are there any Freys left?"

"According to Uncle...some," she retorted smartly.

Davos shifted uncomfortably in his seat, "Anything else?"

She nodded, "Lord Royce has control of the Vale and the Knights of the Vale have pledged to Jon as well."

"That's very good news," Davos smiled, perking up.

She nodded in agreement, "And Tyrion has sent me a colorful raven demanding answers...as well as swearing fealty to House Targaryen."

Sansa didn't miss the pained expression on mother's face at the mention of Tyrion Lannister. That was one more issue that mother would have to overcome when they inevitably met again.

Davos snorted, "I would expect nothing less from him."

"But we know nothing new of King's Landing, and we just know nothing of the Stormlands and Dorne," she finished unhappily. Of all the Kingdoms those two were a mystery. Bran's cryptic words about Dorne didn't help her apprehension, and as far as she knew other than Beric Dondarrion, they had no friends in the Stormlands. Brienne didn't count, the Stormlords were a prideful and rigid bunch, they would not follow a woman.

Davos sighed, "That's unfortunate, but we're still doing pretty well, despite all the chaos."

Sansa nodded in agreement, "True."

The meeting continued on as they discussed their next moves and what was potentially brewing in the Reach and other southern kingdoms.

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Another arrival? They weren't waiting for anyone else. The Baratheons and Davos- they'd know were coming, but...now who? We aren't expecting anyone else...

For a second time that day her work had been interrupted.

"My lady, the visitor is a Kingsguard," the guard reported gravely concerned and surprised, "You should come my lady...quickly."

She hid her worry and gave the guard a long look, he also seemed to be a little awed as well. She nodded and followed him out after asking Lord Manderly to continue reading the financial reports while she dealt with this surprise visitor.

As before, she followed a guard out, mother and Ser Davos tagging along. Along the way they were joined by Ser Rodrick who had a concerned look on his face and a hand on his sword. A Kingsguard unexpectedly coming to Winterfell would be a cause for concern for the master at arms of Winterfell, especially after they'd declared for Jon...who didn't have a Kingsguard yet.

Quickly, they came to the courtyard and she caught her first glimpse of the visiting Kingsguard.

"Gods be good..." she heard Ser Rodrick gasp from behind her.

The Kingsguard stood at attention, his helmet held under his arm, the white armour shining bright in the morning light. The man was old but still looked very formidable, with a straight back and broad square shoulders.

And she recognized him.

And she didn't hate him...

Not like the rest of Joffrey's Kingsguard and in the end this man been a Targaryen loyalist before his death. Just not one of Jon's men.

She didn't mince words, in spite of her surprise, with a regal look and neutral tone, she spoke easily, "I am Lady Sansa Stark of Winterfell, in the name of King Jon Targaryen, the first of his name, I welcome you to Winterfell...but I have to ask why have you come here?"

If he was surprised that she was the one speaking and not her mother he didn't show it, "My lady, I am Ser Barristan Selmy," the legendary old knight bowed deeply, "I am here to protect and serve my true King, Jon Targaryen." He straightened up, standing proud and tall despite his age, shining like something out of the stories she had so loved when she was younger.

She heard her mother's gasp of surprise at Ser Barristan the Bold's proud pronouncement, but mother kept silent.

For a moment Sansa's stoic resolve cracked and she gaped before getting her emotions under control. This was a surprise. Barristan had been Daenerys's creature in the old life. Despite his words, why was he really here? To serve Jon? As her mind went through the implications of this, she gathered herself, getting her expression under control.

Yes, yes this would be good. To have Jon with Ser Barristan at his side would add an extra degree of legitimacy to him. No one in Westeros doubted the word or honor of Ser Barristan the Bold. She held back the grin that now threatened to come to her face at the image. This would be most advantageous. However this came about, this was a very good surprise.

"Welcome to Winterfell Ser Barristan," she nodded in greeting, giving him a small and hiding her eagerness, "You are most welcome here." She gave Davos a look.

"On behalf of his Grace, Jon of House Targaryen, the First of his name, I accept your fealty," Davos said smoothly after a moment

Ser Barristan's eyes focused on Davos and confusion filled them, "Ser Davos? What are you doing here?" he asked supreme surprise coloring his tone.

Ser Davos shrugged and pointed to the Hand's badge on his shirt, "Hand to the King...where else would I be?"

"You...you...are Hand to the King, to Jon Targaryen?!" Ser Barristan asked in shock.

Davos nodded simply, "Aye."

Ser Barristan suddenly looked at a loss for words at this surprise. Davos was always known as Stannis Baratheon's most loyal man and Ser Barristan's surprise was to be expected. The old knight remained silent for several long moments.

"Come along Ser Barristan, I think there is much we need to discuss," Sansa said breaking the silence.

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As they returned to the solar, Lord Manderly looked up from the paper he was reading and then gaped as he laid eyes on Ser Barristan. He cast a questioning look to Sansa.

"Ser Barristan has come to serve his rightful King," Sansa declared proudly.

Lord Manderly continued to gape for a moment before grinning manically, "Welcome Ser Barristan, you're most welcome here!" he said rising to shake Ser Barristan's hand.

"Thank you Lord Manderly," replied Ser Barristan, a little flustered at the large lord's enthusiastic greeting.

She took back her chair as they sat, Ser Barristan looked uncomfortable in his armour before he sat stiffly.

"Please be at ease," Sansa began, "this is unexpected, but any man loyal to House Targaryen is welcome in Winterfell."

He nodded gratefully, before looking around expectantly, "Where is the King?"

Sansa decided to take the lead, quickly speaking and explaining much to him. Yes, Jon truly was a Targaryen and he was her Aunt Lyanna's trueborn son. No, Jon was not here, and neither was Lord Stark. They was in the process of consolidating their hold on the North. Then they were heading to the Wall to make the Wildlings their allies. She also shared with him news of Daenerys.

A small relieved smile came to his face as she spoke and he nodded happily, glad to hear of his Queen. Or former Queen, if he was swearing fealty and naming Jon the true king.

He was less surprised about Jon than she expected, it was obvious someone had shared much with him.

She finished and waited for his reaction.

"Thank you, my lady," he paused pursing his lips thoughtfully, "When I first heard of his Grace, I doubted the words. My source was dubious...at best."

"Dubious?" questioned Davos in confusion.

Ser Barristan nodded, before reaching under his armour and pulling out a thick envelope. A sigil was brightly drawn on the face of the envelope.

The proud Lion seal of House Lannister.

"I am coming from Casterly Rock. Lord Tyrion sends his regards," Ser Barristan declared handing her the letter, "I was to give this either to the King or to you, Lady Sansa. And it was Ser Jaime that first told me the truth."

Sansa bit back a growl, now she'd have to rewrite her message to Tyrion. She took the letter and tore it open, reading it quickly. The gist was still he same as the raven scroll...but it had more details. It had also obviously been written after Tyrion had sent his raven.

Jaime, Myrcella and Tommen were at the Rock, Bronn and Sandor with them. Cersei was a Baratheon prisoner and probably dead by now. Tywin Lannister was locked in room like an errant child and Tyrion had the support of both Genna and Kevan. And none of the Lords of the Westerlands were currently contesting his new role as Lord Paramount of the Westerlands....and many other little things.

Oh the details were oh so glorious!

Especially one in particular!

She grinned and looked up, announcing, "Joffrey's dead." The insufferable little worm was dead, thanks to Sandor Clegane.

"You were with the Lannisters?" mother asked, stressing the name dangerously, her eyes flashing with anger, "with Jaime Lannister?!" she was still stuck on that despite the good news.

Sansa fought the urge to roll her eyes at mother's focus, while at the same time resigning herself that this was probably going to end in screams.

"Lady Stark, you are not the only one surprised by this turn of events, hearing Jaime Lannister declare his fealty to a Targaryen King- one I didn't even know existed was very jarring...to say the least! If it wasn't for Lord Varys's intervention things would have been much bloodier in the Red Keep."

Mother face was turning several interesting colors now, as Sansa winced internally, imagining just how mad she was becoming now.

"Is it true that Ser Jaime slew Loras Tyrell?" Davos quickly asked.

Ser Barristan looked uncomfortable as he shifted in his seat, "Aye, it's true, Ser Jaime did slay Ser Loras."

Sansa shifted unhappily in her seat as she sighed, this confirmation was not welcome, and not from such a trustworthy source.

"...but it was no treacherous attack on Ser Jaime's part. The Tyrell boy attacked us. He attacked Ser Jaime and I. At the same time." Ser Barristan finished in exasperation, "If Jaime had not slain him first, I would have."

Sansa digested that news for moment before letting out a disgusted growl, "Idiot..."

Davos and Lord Manderly's expressions shared equal amounts of annoyance and exasperation at the news, while mother was still lost in her angry thoughts.

"Did Lord Varys accompany you as well?" Sansa asked, moving on. The Spider had been very quiet since their return...no one had mentioned him or had word from him since their return. She still had reservations over his true loyalty despite repeated assurances from Daenerys and Jon.

Ser Barristan shook his head, "He said he still had business in King's Landing."

Sansa frowned unhappily, "What of Lord Baelish?" her voice had an edge to it as she spoke the name.

Ser Barristan scowled darkly, "I have since heard of Baelish's crimes...you don't have to worry about him any more, Ser Jaime saw to that."

"He'd dead?" asked Davos cutting in, as surprise blossomed in Sansa's heart.

"It's hard to be alive when you're missing your head," Ser Barristan replied dryly.

Sansa's surprise turned into joy, she felt like getting up and dancing around the room in triumph as she heard that Baelish was dead. She grinned letting her normal mask fall, so much was going their way, she was almost giddy!

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Catelyn Stark

Catelyn looked away from Ser Barristan, bile rising in her throat as she tried to come to terms with having to thank the Kingslayer for getting rid of Petyr. At the same time, she couldn't bring herself to mourn for the boy she'd known in Riverrun. Petyr had done too many things in the enjoining years for her to spare him any scrap of sympathy.

And good riddance to Joffrey! He'd murdered her Ned, but she was so angry! No, not angry, distressed. That was a better word for what she was feeling.

No...she was angry!

Sansa and the others were happy and she couldn't blame them, but she was still angry! About so many things!

Oh, she was proud of Sansa. Proud of the woman she'd become, just not of why she'd had to become so hard and aloof.

It was unnatural to be reprimanded by one's own daughter. To stand at attention as an errant child as a list of her mistakes were thrown back at her by her young daughter as if Sansa was the parent. It was humiliating enough when Ned had done it, but he was her lord husband and it was his right.

Arya as well had changed, she seemed biddable and obedient most of the time. She listened when Catelyn spoke, was courteous to Septa Mordane but there was something off about the way she reacted. Something that only a mother could see...

...and then there was the business with Robert Baratheon's bastard!

She pressed her lips together, subduing her anger. That, that detail she was well and truly angry about! A bastard! And the bastard had been welcomed to Winterfell with open arms by Sansa as if it was the most natural of things!

And she'd seen the way Arya had been looking at him! Arya! Her little wolf cub had seemed almost...smitten.

But that was impossible, Sansa was the one that pinned after boys...or at least the old Sansa had.

And now...this business with Jaime Lannister?!

"We're just going to let this pass us by?" she demanded irritably, "Jaime Lannister? What of his crimes?"

Sansa sighed heavily, for the first time in a long time, Catelyn could see a little trepidation on her face, "Both Jon and Daenerys have pardoned him. He is a trusted ally now." she explained in a resigned tone.

And now she was hearing things, because Sansa couldn't have just named Jaime Lannister as a trusted ally. Not the Kingslayer!

She rose from her seat, "Are you forgetting that he tried to murder Bran! Right here in Winterfell!" she screamed angrily, "He pushed him from the Old Tower! He crippled my poor boy! Your own brother! You nearly murdered Ned in King's Landing! And what of Lord Karstark's sons?"

Sansa's face hardened, "I am well aware of all his crimes...and all his services to the realm."

Catelyn was irate, "Services? What services? All he has done is betray his oaths at every turn!"

Sansa stared back unfazed.

Catelyn stared back at Sansa unflinching.

"You didn't tell her about the Wildfire?" asked Davos, breaking the stand off between mother and daughter.

Catelyn twisted towards Ser Davos, "Wildfire? What Wildfire?!"

"One surprise at a time," Sansa replied dryly.

Catelyn turned back to Sansa mystified as her daughter began speaking of Aerys Targaryen. When Sansa was finished, she sat back in her chair stunned and shaking.

The Mad King had truly lived up to his name. She trembled at the sheer calamity that had been narrowly averted by Jaime Lannister.

The smug Lannister bastard had saved her Ned and never said anything! He'd saved so many with his oath breaking...

They were speaking again and it took Catelyn a while to be able to focus back on the conversation.

"...the Lady Shireen is here as well?" questioned Ser Barristan in disbelief.

"Aye, she's a guest here now," Ser Davos answered with a nod.

"Forgive me Ser Davos...your story is well know- almost as much as my own. Your loyalty to Stannis Baratheon is legendary...What happened to bring you to the true King? And why bring the Lady Shireen? She's not a hostage is she?" he asked in concern.

Davos snorted angrily, "Of course not! I love that girl like my own! I brought her to protect her from her damned father."

Catelyn's ears perked up eagerly, this thread of the conversation overriding her anger and disbelief...perhaps she'd get some answers now. One less mystery to deal with would be most welcome.

Ser Barristan was taken aback, "Protect her from...Lord Stannis?"

She saw Ser Davos's face darken and turned a startling shade of red, "Aye...what he did to her was unforgivable...." he trailed off for a moment, seemingly lost in his memories. He struggled with the words for a moment, " Stannis...gods curse that man! And damn Melisandre! They needed a blood sacrifice...so he burned her! He burned Shireen!" the grief in Davos's tone was like a physical blow.

Ser Barristan reared back away from Davos, he looked aghast and stunned by the words. Lord Manderly looked equally angry and disgusted as Sansa did now.

"Jon has promised to protect her. She is his cousin, and Jon does not harm innocent children. She is not a hostage, no matter what happens with her Uncles or father," Sansa was saying, but Catelyn wasn't paying attention any more.

She'd met with Stannis at his parley with Renly. She'd seen how cold and unforgiving he was. She'd also seen the Shadow that had murdered Renly.

But this...

The world was mad. Because this was all mad!

That poor girl! And she remembered! First, to be cursed with Greyscale and then...

Catelyn shuddered.

Gods be good! Father protect us all from this madness!

She didn't hear anything more of what was discussed, there were too many things on her mind now. Her anger warred with her shock. It was too much!

She didn't notice when the others left till Sansa came to stand by her and took her hand, slowly rubbing her back.

They'd left her and Sansa alone. She looked up and stared into her daughter's eyes. The hardness was still there...it never left these days. But there was compassion there as well.

"I'm sorry mother," Sansa shook her head, "it's not something we could tell you all at once. There's too much you didn't know. One revelation at a time."

Catelyn stared up at her. The world was mad...her daughter was a grown woman now. Something was wrong with Arya. Jaime Lannister had saved Ned's life. Jaime Lannister had tried to murder both Ned and Bran. And the Bastard was a King...

Since she'd first laid eyes on the boy, since Ned first brought him back after the rebellion, she'd been so afraid that he would steal Robb's birthright...and he'd been the one who's birthright had been stolen. A birthright greater than Robb's. King. The Seven's Kingdoms were his by right. Not a bastard and not a stain on her honor.

It was too much to absorb quickly or easily...

She stood up quickly and straightened her back stiffly, freeing her hand from Sansa's, "I have duties to see to," she stated evenly.

Sansa nodded, "Of course, mother."

She walked out of the solar stiffly.

A distraction...that's what she needed, a distraction- and time. Time to adjust to all she now knew.

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The afternoon saw more visitors come to Winterfell...

After Sansa's distasteful and disturbing revelations, Catelyn had thrown herself into her work. Trying to get past it...the Kingslayer...an ally?! She tried not to think of the Wildfire and how close she had come to loosing Ned.

The scene she found in the courtyard was a strange one. There were three people there surrounded by guards...and with the primitive furs they were wearing, they could only have been Wildlings. Most of the Stark guards were tense, but the Manderly men were less so.

She approached them, finding that Maester Luwin was already among them. The maester was speaking animatedly with one of the Wildlings, a woman with unkempt wild hair and dirty furs.

They turned towards her and she saw that Luwin was, unexpectedly, smiling broadly.

"My Lady," he began in a delighted tone and wide smile, "allow me to introduce, Osha!"

She started as her eyes jerked towards the Wildling woman.

This was the woman who had saved her sons?

She looked the woman once over again. The woman looked just like she expected a Wildling to look, she also had a very unnerving stare. This Osha didn't seem to blink much.

The woman gave her an insolent and languid imitation of a curtsy, "My lady," her voice was hard but not hostile.

Catelyn nodded, "I have heard what you did to help my sons," she stated evenly.

Osha gave her a toothy smile, "They're good boys, them little lords, twas right to help them."

"Yes, well, I thank you Osha for your service to House Stark," And now she was thanking a Wildling...because this day wasn't enough of a strain on her sensibilities...

True, the woman deserved the praise, her loyalty had been proved beyond a shadow of a doubt, and she'd died by the Bolton Bastard's hand. When Ned returned he would reward her greatly.

"Osha!" came Rickon's cry of joy from behind her.

The Wildling, Osha, smiled wide, "Little Lord."

Catelyn turned and saw Rickon running towards them, his direwolf on his heels, barking as excitedly as his master seemed.

The Wildling knelt down as Rickon threw himself at her. Rickon held onto the woman hard, an expression of childish joy on his face. His direwolf danced around the duo just as excited.

Catelyn didn't know how to feel, she'd been told that Osha was a Wildling and the service she'd done for the Starks...for her precious boys. She more than appreciated how Osha had protected Bran and Rickon...but seeing it in front of her eyes was something else...seeing just how much Rickon was attached to the woman, grated greatly on her nerves.

It drove home, just how alone she'd left her son for him to become attached to such an unsuitable replacement.

They broke apart and Osha ruffled Rickon's hair as he beamed happily.

Rickon turned to her, "Mother, this is Osha! She took care of me and Bran when we escaped from the Ironborn!" the boy crowed happily.

Her smile became strained, "We're met. Maester Luwin introduced us."

Rickon nodded and then hugged Osha again. "I'm glad you're back and remember," he said happily.

"Not as much as I am, little lord," Osha rejoined dryly.

Catelyn let them have their moment of joyous reunion. It was only right, despite how she was feeling.

"Osha," a female voice called out.

The voice belonged to Lord Reed's quiet daughter, Meera. She was coming across the courtyard. She came up to Osha with an amused smile on her face.

"Meera," Osha said in surprise.

The Reed girl then actually embraced the Wildling, "It's good to see you."

"Aye, tis good to be alive...again," Osha admitted, "Strange...but good."

They broke apart and turned to face Catelyn expectantly.

"Perhaps a hot meal for Osha and her friends, while I speak with Sansa about all this," Catelyn suggested gracefully, taking the hint.

Luwin nodded, "Of course, my Lady, I'll see to their needs."

Rickon began talking excitedly with Osha again as the two other Wildlings still remained suspicious of all around them. Meera watched them all from Osha's side with a bittersweet smile.

Catelyn turned her back and walked stiffly away to look for Sansa, leaving her joyous son with a Wildling, feeling like a complete failure as a mother.

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Already, in such a short period of time, Osha and the other Wildlings were settling in. By Sansa's decree, as long as they abide by the rules, they would be welcome in Winterfell. Osha hadn't been surprised, but her companions were still skeptical, especially after Sansa mentioned that the King would be allowing Mace Ryder and his host passage past the Wall and into the North. It had taken a lot of words and they were still dubious of the truth Sansa had given them.

Catelyn sighed heavily.

And today wasn't over yet...

Today was turning out to be a busy day- far too busy and disturbing for Catelyn's peace of mind. Now, men flying Tully banners had been sighted approaching Winterfell. Apparently, Edmure's gift was arriving today as well.

Catelyn was the first one to meet them. She smiled brightly as she recognized the lead knight.

Ser Edmyn was a old man, his hair was white now but otherwise, time didn't appear to have changed or weakened him at all. She remembered him well, he'd served father faithfully since she was a little girl. She remembered the grief she'd felt when she'd been told he'd fallen to the Lannisters during the first siege of Riverrun.

Ser Edmyn smiled broadly as he stepped up to her, "Lady Catelyn...forgive me, Lady Stark," he corrected himself abashed, "It heartens me to see you again after so many years! You have been sorely missed in Riverrun."

She smiled back, his familiar- if aged, face reassuring her, "Welcome Ser Edmyn, I am glad to see you as well."

"Thank you my lady," he responded with a bow. He gestured behind him to the men with him, "your brother sends his regards. He had a gift for your son, as Lord Edmure said it, he hopes that Lord Robb will forgive him his mistakes from the last life."

She nodded, her lips thinning, she was well aware of Edmure's mistakes and what it cost Robb. She cast a look at the men. A dozen grim faced men in Tully colours, with Ser Edmyn being the most senior of them. The rest where young men that she didn't know. They'd all dismounted and at Ser Edmyn's gesture two of them dragged a man forward. The man was dirty, his faced bruised with two black eyes and a swollen nose. He was gagged and bound, they Tully men didn't seem to have treated him well at all.

As they dragged him forward and threw him at her feet, she understood why.

Her ire was rising...no, it wasn't simply ire now, it was rage. The rage was building in her as she locked eyes with the bound, prone and fearful prisoner. She recognized him and understood why he had been so badly treated by her father's men.

"Lothar Frey!" she spat angrily. The loathsome bastard had murdered Talisa and Catelyn's unborn grandchild!

One of the men, roughly dragged him up. Lothar rested on his knees a hand tightly gripping his neck and holding him in place. There was unabashed fear shining in his eyes, as he stared up at her.

"Aye, my lady, Lothar Frey. Lord Edmure has grudgingly accepted Stevron as Lord of the Crossing now- and his subsequent surrender. And good riddance to the old weasel!" Ser Edmyn announced with a grin.

A happy feeling blossomed in Catelyn's gut which then turned to glee, as the import of Ser Edmyn's words were realised. If Stevron was lord, then Walder Frey was dead! Edmure's raven had been short and to the point, and confirmation of his actions please her greatly.

"...there's not many Freys left at the Twins- your brother saw to that," Ser Edmyn added in gruff glee, his eyes twinkling with satisfaction.

"Indeed?" This was even more welcome news, they'd known that Edmure was going to the Twins with a lot of support from all sides, but again confirmation of his victory was reassuring, "this is very good news."

"What's very good news?" came Sansa's voice, as she stepped up beside her.

Catelyn turned to Sansa, "This is Ser Edmyn, I've known him since before I was your age. Ser Edmyn, this my eldest daughter, Sansa of House Stark...the King has left her in charge of Winterfell, till Lord Stark's return." She added the last part with a pained smile.

Sansa gave him a long look , before smiling gracefully, "Welcome to Winterfell Ser," she cast a look at Lothar, "I'm assuming this is my uncle's gift?"

The knight smiled, and nodded, before quickly sharing with her all he'd already said to Cately. By the time he was finished, Sansa had a wolfish smile on her face.

"That is excellent news," the smile waned as she focused behind Ser Edmyn, "And who is this? A second gift?"

Surprised, Catelyn looked to where Sansa was gazing. There was a second prisoner shackled and bound, though not gagged. She'd missed the second prisoner as first because he was only a boy. This one was in better condition than Lothar...but he was unquestionably a Frey.

She scowled darkly as their eyes met, "Olyvar," she spat venomously. It was Robb's traitorous little squire!

"I didn't have anything to do with the Red Wedding!" Olyvar blurted out loudly, defended himself.

"Then why are you here?" Catelyn questioned pointedly with a snide, disbelieving tone.

Olyvar looked down despondently, "Lord Edmure didn't believe me."

Catelyn sniffed haughtily and looked down at him, "And I don't believe you either! Where were you when they were murdering my Robb?! You were his squire! Where were you?!"

The boy looked away discomforted by the accusation, after a moment of silence he answered, "They locked me away...they kept me away. I wanted to warn him, but they stopped me..." he finished in a upset tone.

"A likely story," she dismissed his words and his acting, he was a Frey, he would say anything to save himself.

"A sorry excuse for a squire," Ser Edmyn agreed with a sneer, "Lord Edmure was unsure of the boy's words. He's for Lord Robb to judge."

The boy didn't retort, he just looked more despondent.

"I know him," came Arya's gleeful voice from behind Catelyn.

She only jumped a little at the unexpected voice. Arya was suddenly standing next to her. And next to Arya, much to Catelyn's disapproval, stood the bastard, Gendry.

"This is Uncle Edmure's gift," Sansa quickly stated in an amused tone.

The bruised and battered Lothar began to squirm in his guard's grasp as Arya stepped up to him, ignoring the now silent Olyvar, who was suddenly giving Arya a very fearful look.

As Catelyn watched, Arya gave Lothar a wide delighted smile, "I'll have to thank Uncle Edmure for sending you here," she said with a mirthful tone that did not match the predatory murderous look in her eye.

Lothar's squirming became worse, and a second grim faced Tully man was forced to grab him along with the first to hold him in place.

"So how are we going to kill him this time?" Arya asked innocently, much to Catelyn's unease.

Lothar wasn't squirming now, he was outright fighting to break free, his guards hard pressed to keep him kneeling.

"Anyone for Pies?" Arya suddenly asked causing the blood to drain from Lothar's face and his struggles to increase. He turned so white, it was a miracle that he stayed conscious.

Ser Edmyn and his grim faced men laughed nastily at Arya's joke. As Olyvar turned just as pale as Lothar. A smell assaulted Catelyn's nose. It coming from Lothar and it left no doubt that he had done more than just pissed himself at Arya's words. His eyes were filled with wide and filled with a scary amount of terror.

Sansa glared at her sister, while Gendry didn't look amused.

Gendry grabbed Arya's shoulder, stopping her from getting any closer, "I think he's had enough."

Arya stared up at him for a moment, before huffing unhappily, "Fine, spoil my fun." She cast another glare at Lothar causing him to start struggling again, before she walked off.

Sansa jerked her head at her and gave Gendry a look, "Keep an eye on her..."

Gendry nodded cutting her off, "I know, I know...no pies." He walked off after her.

Catelyn clenched her fists, fighting to control her emotions. Pies! Pies! Pies every single time! What the in the name of the Seven was the issue with Pies!?

Sansa had apparently come to a decision now, "Take them to the dungeons," she commanded, "The King will decide their fate when he returns." She nodded, to Ser Edmyn, "Come Ser Edmyn, I believe you will have more to tell us," She turned and left the courtyard as the men began obeying her.

xoxoxoxoxxoxoxoxoxoxoxxoxoxoxox

Later, Catelyn finally managed to corner Sansa in the great hall. She had been excluded from the meeting with Ser Edmyn, and dismissed back to her duties. But now, she had to have answers, she'd seen the sheer terror in Lothar Frey's eyes as he looked at Arya! It was too much, she needed answers! This couldn't continue! Whatever they were hiding from her she had to know!

"Sansa, we have to speak!" Catelyn declared angrily, as she approached.

Sansa had been speaking with Maester Luwin and Ser Rodrick as Catelyn approached. The conversation stopped and she turned to face her.

"Yes, mother?" Sansa asked, unmoved by Catelyn's sharp tone.

"We have to talk Sansa," Catelyn repeated flustered, "It can't go on, I am still your mother and the Lady of Winterfell. I know you've been keeping things from me. It has to end...you have to tell me about Arya!"

Sansa held her gaze for a moment, before sighing unhappily, "It doesn't have to be today, mother."

"No! Another day will not pass, I will know what is being kept from me," Catelyn retorted.

Sansa held her gaze for a moment before sighing again, she gestured towards Maester Luwin and Ser Rodrick, "Both of you might as well join us, it's only a matter of time before this truth spreads. Best you all hear the truth from me- and not the rumors." She turned sharply on her heel and left the great hall.

Catelyn cast a glance at Luwin and Ser Rodrick as they shared an unreadable look, before following Sansa.

In next to no time, they were gathered in Ned's solar.

As Sansa took a seat behind the desk, she raised her head defiantly, "What do you wish to discuss first, mother?" she asked in a cool tone.

Catelyn frowned at her tone, it far too arrogant for her liking. She mentally debated where to start, "Arya. And the Bastard." She spat the word.

Sansa winced, "He's Arya's." she replied simply.

"He's a bastard, he can't be her's. Sansa, Arya is a lady of a Great House. How can be her's? There is no future for the two of them...unless you're going to tell me he's a hidden prince as well?" Catelyn finished snidely.

Sansa gave her a long look, "Since when has Arya been a lady? Do not lie to yourself mother, she was never like me. She was and has always been a wolf. She was never going to be a proper lady. And she does love him...much to everyone's surprise." Sansa finished with a perplexed tone.

Catelyn coloured, Arya couldn't be in love! "He's still a bastard."

"And that doesn't matter to Arya...or to Jon. Gendry is a good man. Loyal and trustworthy...not the smartest person around I'll give you, but unlike his father, he only has eyes for Arya. Gendry is not the type to stray. If he was, Jon would not welcome his attraction to Arya..."

Catelyn fumed, the bastard had the King's good opinion and permission?! Is this to be Jon's revenge on her for all she had done to him growing up? Letting Arya marry so far beneath her? Let her marry a bastard?!

"...and all of that doesn't matter. Arya is unmarriable. No man will marry her if she doesn't approve. They would be too afraid...and she will never approve of anybody but Gendry. Not for you. Not for father and not even for Jon," Sansa finished calmly.

There was a coldnes in her gut now, "Why is she unmarriable? Why are the men so afraid of her?"

"Can't you not just accept my word that she is? I'm trying to spare you this. It will hurt," Sansa explained, a mournful expression on her face. "Things will never be the same after you know the truth."

"Enough Sansa! I am still your mother! You will tell me why the men are so afraid of Arya!" Catelyn demanded angrily.

Sansa gave her a long, pained look, "You don't want to know."

Catelyn gave her a withering look, "Of course I want to know! She's my daughter!" she retorted with a sharper tone than she intended.

Sansa shook her head, "Some things can't be taken back once said. Some things can't be unheard."

The pit in her stomach collapsed in itself as her mind raced, trying to imagine what horrible thing Sansa was keeping from her. What could Arya have possibly done that was so horrible?

"Tell me," she demanded again.

Sansa let out a sigh, her eyes unreadable, she spoke and irrevocably shattered Catelyn's world, "She's a Faceless Man."

Catelyn's heart stopped and she swayed. She felt hands grab her and steady her. She felt herself being quickly guided to a chair. Her knees gave out and she collapsed into the chair. Maester Luwin was at her side, giving her a long evaluating look. She ignored him and stared at Sansa.

"How?" Catelyn managed to mutter the question, still numb with shock. How could little Arya be a....how was this possible? How could she be...she shuddered she couldn't even utter the name.

"With training, she met a Faceless Man while she was fleeing from King's Landing, they apparently became friends. Later she made her way to Braavos, to the House of Black and White," Sansa gave her broad strokes but didn't clarify more, "later still, she returned to Westeros."

Catelyn was starting to shake now, "Lothar was terrified of her...he knew? He knew she was..." her voice broke and she couldn't continue.

Sansa nodded, "After a fashion, she killed him the first time around," she paused giving her a concerned look, "....you don't have to know the details."

She rocked back in the chair...her Arya killed someone?! "Tell me! What did she do?" Catelyn hadn't intended to scream.

Sansa looked away for a moment. When she turned back, her eyes were disquieted and pitying.

Sansa explained precisely what Arya had done to Walder Frey and his sons.

Catelyn felt her gorge rise and bile filled her throat. Pies. Freys. Pies. Freys...Frey Pie.

Her eyes dimmed and the world swayed and then darkness claimed her as she finally understood why people kept saying 'no pies' to her little girl.

xoxoxoxoxxoxoxoxoxoxoxxoxoxoxox

Sansa Stark

Sansa sat alone in father's solar, she was very unhappy, she'd be having words with Jon when he got back to Winterfell, for leaving her without explaining the truth about Arya...and other secrets. Mother had fainted but Maester Luwin had assured her she would be alright. He and Ser Rodrick had taken her to her chambers to rest.

But at least it was finally out there. One less secret. Well a couple less secrets. She understood why they'd kept it all secret for so long, mother and father could only take so many surprises at once.

Alright, maybe not so many words, it was understandable and she'd agreed with him at the time. She still agreed with him now. It was better that father and mother were separate when they found out everything.

She could only imagine just how father would react. He despised Jaime. Even before everything, she'd recognized that. And Arya...well he'd be beyond heartbroken when that was revealed to him.

She sighed unhappily, mother was resting, and Maester Luwin was with her. And Sansa had far too much work to do to get distracted now.

But apparently it still wasn't time to get back to work.

Lady mewled unhappily from by her side dragging her away from her thoughts and work. She looked down by her chair, the direwolf was staring up her with unhappy eyes. She reached down and scratched behind the direwolf's ears.

"I'm sorry girl," Sansa began, "I know I've been busy...but it's important." She knew she'd been neglecting the direwolf. Unlike her first life, she hadn't been able to play with the direwolf as much, with most of her time taken up planning and dealing with her duties. They'd been back nearly a moon and the direwolf had grown as much as she remembered. The pup was nearly the size of a normal sized dog now.

Despite the size, she enticed Lady into her lap and cuddled with her. Soon enough Lady would be too big for such things, but she promised herself that she'd enjoy these little moments and take more time with Lady.

This time, Father would have no reason to harm Lady. No one would harm any of the direwolves this time. They were a pack and the pack always looked out for each other. That had been her mistake in the last life, siding with the Lannisters against Arya...then against Father.

She shuddered remembering Cersei's honeyed, lying words and the letter she'd written once upon a time.

Never again...she promised herself.

A knock came interrupting her self loathing. She huffed unamused, there had been far too many interruptions and visitors for one day. And she still hadn't told mother all Uncle Edmure had done to the Freys...never mind that he was going to remarry Roslin.

It was agood ploy to reunite the Riverlands after all the Freys had done, but she'd gotten to know her uncle enough to know that wasn't why he was marrying the girl again.

The knocking came again.

She shook herself and called out, "Come!"

The door opened and Davos stepped in.

"Lady Sansa," he nodded in greeting.

She smiled and coyly said, "My Lord Hand."

Davos huffed, "Not you too. I thought we in the North and not the South."

Sansa laughed, "Have a seat, My lord Hand," she continued.

He huffed again, and sat down with an amused smile, "I'm glad you find it so amusing."

"And I'm glad you're here. You've rested?" Sansa said honestly.

"Well enough for now," Davos stated evenly, a smile came to his lips, "Shireen's settling in nicely. I left her with Arya and Rickon and the boy's Wildling girl."

"And where's Gendry? I asked him to keep an eye on Arya," Sansa asked in confusion and concern.

Davos shrugged, "He made her promise not to do anything to the Freys, then he said he wouldn't give her his gift if she did anything."

"Gift?" she asked with a raised eyebrow.

"He's in the forge. I can guess what he's making for her," Davos said matter of factly, "But we've all promised him not to tell her where he is till he's finished."

Sansa snorted, she could imagine what he was making, "Yes, I don't think any other gift would do for my dear sister," she agreed in amusement. She nodded once then changed the subject, "I'm surprised your son isn't here with you. Where is he?" she asked curious.

Davos shrugged, "I left Matthos in White Harbor with my ship. Someone has to keep an eye on her...not that I don't think the Manderlys are trustworthy- it's more to keep an eye on my crew. It's always best to keep a watch on them. And Ser Wylis said he'd keep an eye on Matthos for me, just in case anything happens."

Sansa nodded before moving on, "Good, good...you heard about mother?"

Davos winced, "Aye, that little secret is making the rounds- it's why Arya's with the Wildlings now. They don't know what a Faceless man is. The Tully men have been proudly spouting her deeds in the Riverlands, they're proud of her. Your guardsmen are more than a little scared of her now. They remember the girl she was...it'll take a while before get used to the new Arya."

Sansa winced, Maester Luwin, Ser Rodrick, Tomard, Alyn, Desmond, Mikken, Hullen, Old Nan, and so many others who remembered her as Arya Underfoot...gods...what was Jeyne thinking now?

Davos sighed and commiserated, "In this new mad world, what's one more insane thing?"

Sansa shook her head, "There has to be a limit..."

He looked thoughtful for a moment, "As long as Rhaegar Targaryen doesn't rise from his grave...I think we're good."

"I think there's little hope of that, even Thoros couldn't bring him back," Sansa said mentioning the Red Priest. She didn't mention Melisandre. The Red Priestess was a touchy subject with Davos. She knew he hadn't even talked to her before fleeing Dragonstone, not that she blamed him, putting Melisandre and Shireen on the same boat with Davos was a recipe for disaster. He'd probably have thrown Melisandre into the Narrow Sea.

"Aye that's true...but there is one thing that is riling up the men more than Arya," Davos paused, his lips thinning in concern, "Jaime Lannister."

Sansa frowned, "He's an ally now."

"I know that and you know that and the King knows that, but a lot of the men remember him and all his crimes. He even killed some of them. And they know he tried to kill Lord Stark. And he crippled Bran....and this isn't even touching on what the Tyrells will want to do to him."

Sansa sighed, she knew this would be a sticking point for many people, "He's been punished more than others." Living through Myrcella's death was not something that she'd wish on anybody...no, she'd wish it on Cersei, but not Jaime or Myrcella. The girl was as innocent as Rickon, but Cersei deserved that and much more, more than anybody else in Westeros. "And we'll deal with the Tyrells when it comes up- if Sam hasn't dealt with them already."

Davos looked a little mollified, "And after the war? That's assuming we survive..." he prompted.

"He can disappear to Tarth," Sansa declared simply.

"Many won't consider that a punishment," he retorted unhappily.

"It's not," Sansa clarified, "It a reward...just not for him. It's a reward for Brienne." Brienne deserved happiness for her loyalty to House Stark.

Davos worked his jaw for a moment, "Put that way...it might placate some people...but not many."

Sansa scrunched up her face, "I know....but he's always going to be a divisive issue. What is more important? His crimes? Or his services to the Kingdoms?"

"Most still don't know about his greatest service," Davos pointed out. The words Wildfire and Aerys Targaryen went unsaid.

"And that's something we'll be rectifying," Sansa declared, "Hopefully, that will be enough for most."

Davos frowned, deep in thought, "Let's hope so," he finally said.

Silence descended on them, as the both got lost in their thoughts. She looked down to see that Lady had fallen asleep on her lap. She gently stroked her fur and listened to her soft breathing.

Whatever happened, they would persevere. Winter was coming and they would be ready for it.

She would make sure of it!

xoxoxoxoxxoxoxoxoxoxoxxoxoxoxox

Catelyn Stark

Consciousness returned slowly for her. She blinked and lay there confused. She was in her bed, in her own chambers...what was she doing in her chambers, now? The day wasn't finished and there was work to be done!

She sat up suddenly, staring about. Luwin was sat by her side. Why was he here?

That second was when the whole horrific truth came back to her...she felt the blood draining from her face.

"My Lady? Please relax, you're had a shock," Luwin said coming to stand by her side and reaching out to physically support her, concern filling his voice.

She could feel herself swaying as she sat. Shock? Is that what this was called? She'd have thought apoplexy was a better description of this situation....

Arya was...

Arya was...

...

She still couldn't bring herself to say it even in the comfort of her own mind. If she said it than it was true. And if that was true then...Freys and Pies...

After a moment, she whispered, "My Little girl...she's..."

Luwin face contorted with multiple emotions, "I am aware, my Lady."

She felt like weeping, was this her punishment? She'd thought that Bran being crippled was her punishment for breaking her promise. Ned's murder and all the bad things that had happened...it was all her punishment. She'd promised to love Jon if he survived the pox as a child...but she hadn't. So much had happened before she died in the last life...and so much more after the Red Wedding...first Rickon's murder, than Sansa and Ramsay and the dogs...and now Arya and...

She shuddered, she knew this curse was her fault.

Promises to the Seven were not to be forsworn without consequences...

So many consequences...

"It will be alright, my lady," Luwin said giving her false assurances.

How would this be alright? Arya had...Sansa was...the bastard was the King! And the army of the Dead was coming to kill them all!

Gods! Seven Hells! What was Ned going to say about this? Had they already told him? Is that why he was so grim ad short tempered before leaving Winterfell?

She shuddered again, her whole body shaking with emotion.

"My Lady?" Luwin's voice was insistent now.

She lent on his supporting hands and twisted, putting her feet down on the ground.

"Please leave me alone," Catelyn requested urgently.

Luwin looked upset and unmoved, "Lady Catelyn...it is best not to dwell. What happened, happened. We cannot change what was in the old life. All we can do to face the future and this new chance. This is a new life now."

"Leave me!" she shouted angrily. She was losing control and a Lady was never supposed to lose control. Father would be so disappointed in her for her loss of control.

Luwin's face was stone now, "I will be by in a while, I will bring some dreamwine for you. This is a shock to all of us. I suggest you rest. Rest will do you good now." He left without another word, shuffling and out closing the door quietly behind him.

Alone in her chambers now, she let herself weep. She wept inconsolably.

Her fault...it was all her fault.

Notes:

Hoped you all liked this dozy of a chapter! It didn't want to end! :D lol. Also I borrowed the Tully knight from Cymraeg and Robb Returns with permission. Anyway, as always, don't forget to review! :D